NCLEX-PN
Maternal NCLEX Questions
Extract:
Question 1 of 5
The nurse is caring for the pregnant client. Which assessment findings help the nurse determine that she may be in true labor? Select all that apply.
Correct Answer: A,B,E
Rationale: Progressive cervical dilation and effacement indicate true labor. In false labor, the contractions may occur for several hours, but there is no cervical change. In true labor, walking usually increases the intensity of contractions. In false labor, walking usually has little or no effect on contractions and may sometimes decrease the frequency, intensity, and duration of contractions. Contractions increase in duration and intensity during true labor, while there is usually no change in contractions during false labor. Warm tub baths and rest lessen contractions during false labor. In true labor, contractions do not decrease with warm tub baths or rest. Discomfort is usually in the client’s abdomen during false labor. Discomfort begins in the back and radiates around to the abdomen during true labor.
Question 2 of 5
The nurse identifies which sign as indicative of postpartum depression?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Persistent feelings of hopelessness are a key indicator of postpartum depression, requiring intervention.
Question 3 of 5
The nurse is caring for four postpartum clients. Which client should be the nurse’s priority for monitoring for uterine atony?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Although the client post—cesarean birth for a breech baby may be at risk for uterine atony and should be monitored, the client who delivered a macrosomic baby is more at risk. This client is the nurse’s priority for monitoring for uterine atony. A macrosomic baby stretches the client’s uterus, and thus the muscle fibers of the myometrium, beyond the usual pregnancy size. After delivery the muscles are unable to contract effectively. A firm fundus indicates that the client’s uterine muscles are contracting. Oxytocin (Pitocin) is being administered to increase uterine contractions. Although prolonged use of oxytocin can result in uterine exhaustion, two hours of use is not prolonged.
Question 4 of 5
The client is diagnosed with moderate postpartum depression (PPD) after vaginal delivery of a 10 lb baby. One week following the delivery, the nurse is completing a home visit. Which finding should be the nurse’s priority?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Lochia that is foul smelling could indicate that the client has a postpartum infection. The client needs to be seen by an HCP, but the safety of the infant is priority. The presence of tender hemorrhoids may be uncomfortable and should be addressed, but this is not priority. It is inappropriate for the client to yell at her baby to stop crying. Verbal abuse can escalate to physical abuse. The safety of the infant should be the nurse’s priority. Persistent crying is a sign of PPD and would be expected. However, persistent crying should be further explored because treatment may be ineffective.
Question 5 of 5
The nurse notifies the HCP after feeling a pulsating mass during the vaginal examination of a newly admitted full-term pregnant client. Which HCP order should the nurse question?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The nurse should question the administration of oxytocin (Pitocin). Oxytocin is used for stimulating contraction of the uterus. Uterine contractions can cause further umbilical cord compression. The pulsating mass indicates umbilical cord prolapse, which is a medical emergency. If vaginal birth is not imminent, a cesarean section is preferred in order to prevent hypoxic acidosis. Placing the client in a knee-chest position relieves pressure on the umbilical cord. Terbutaline (Brethine) is a tocolytic agent used to reduce contractions.